consciousness

In an age of rampant crime, random violence, and international terrorism, “safe places” are much sought after and even harder to find. Most cities now have gated communities designed to isolate and protect those inside. People everywhere are seeking refuge from outside forces perceived as negative and dangerous.

However, the Psalmist tells us this: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Ps. 91:1 KJV). And we are further assured: “Because you have made the Lord your refuge, the Most High your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent” (Ps. 91:9-10).

One of the earliest scriptures in the Bible states, “but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall die” (Genesis 2:17). Throughout the years, there have been many interpretations of this scripture, but at its essence, it calls for us to be mindful of feelings of fragmentation, or separation.